Method for making a secondary wager on a primary game of chance

ABSTRACT

Disclosed in this specification is a method for making a secondary wager on a primary game. In one embodiment, the outcome of the secondary wager is determined such that winning the primary gale does not necessitate winning the secondary wager. The odds of winning the secondary game change from one round to the next.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority of co-pending U.S. patent applications 60/818,682 (filed Jul. 5, 2006) and 60/818,683 (filed Jul. 5, 2006).

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates, in one embodiment, to a method for making a secondary wager on multiple rounds of a primary game of chance. The outcome of the secondary wager is determined such that winning the primary game does not necessitate winning the secondary wager. The odds of winning the secondary wager vary depending on the current number of sequentially favorable outcomes such that the odds of winning the wager change with each success.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional games of chance are played in gaming establishments across the world. Professional establishments, such as casinos, invest a great deal of energy developing new and entertaining ways to play games of chance that will both entice customers to play the game, and still afford a modest “house advantage” that makes profit possible. One such method for enhancing game play is to offer secondary wagers.

During the game play of a primary game various indicia are generated. For example, in a card game, indicia such as card value, suit, and type are generated. The outcome of the game is determined by comparing selected indicia with the rules of primary game that have been established by the house. Side bets, also referred to as secondary wagers, may be offered in an attempt to increase the enjoyment of the primary game. For example, man-y prior art secondary wagering systems pen-it a player to make a side bet on streaks of wins of the primary gamed

The secondary wagering system disclosed in this specification allows a player to make a secondary wager on a primary game of chance. The odds of winning the secondary wager change with each favorable outcome of the secondary wager. Additionally, the outcome of the secondary wager is determined such that winning the primary game does not necessitate winning the secondary wager.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention comprises, in one form thereof a method for making a secondary wager on a primary game. Such method is comprised of the steps of (1) affording an opportunity to make primary wagers on a series of rounds of a primary game, (2) affording an opportunity to make a secondary wager on the series of rounds of the primary game, (3) affording an opportunity to play a multiplicity of rounds of the primary game, (4) if the secondary wager was made, determining the outcome of the secondary wager wherein the odds of winning the secondary wager change with each favorable outcome of the secondary wager. The outcome of the secondary wager is determined such that winning the primary game does not necessitate winning the secondary wager.

An advantage of the present invention is that the player may be rewarded for winning the secondary wager even if the primary game is lost, thus the game is more rewarding.

A further advantage is the additional stimulation provided by offering the player the chance to infrequently win a large bonus jackpot, while also offering the chance to more frequently win a smaller jackpot.

A still further advantage is the added excitement caused by the changing odds of winning the secondary wager. Such changing odds provide the casino with the ability to construct a profitable payout table while maintaining player interest,

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawing, wherein;

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of one method of making a secondary wager.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several examples. The examples set out herein illustrate several embodiments of the invention but should not be construed as limiting the nature or scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of one method 100 for use with the present invention. Method 100 is initiated in step 102, wherein a player is afforded the opportunity to make primary wagers on a series of rounds of a primary game. Such an opportunity may be afforded by any suitable entity such as an individual, an electronic game machine (such as a computer or hand-held device), a network-based computer game (such as an internet gambling web site), a dealer representing a gaming establishment or casino, and the like. In this specification such an entity is generically referred to as the “house.” The house determines the established rules of the primary game. If the opportunity is accepted, then the method will continue and step 104 will be executed. If the opportunity is not accepted, then the house continues to afford such offers until a player is found.

In step 104 of method 100, the primary game is played in accordance with established rules. Such established rules are preferably made by the house. In step 106 of method 100, the outcome of the primary game is determined in accordance with such established rules.

In step 108 of method 100, a player is afforded an opportunity to make a secondary wager on an indicia generated during each round of the series of rounds of the primary game of step 102. The secondary wagering game is played substantially concurrently with the primary game. To accept such an opportunity the player must provide a stake (e.g. a chip, token, currency, or other thing of value) to wager. Any suitable primary game can be used in conjunction with method 100 so long as some indicia is generated which can be used in secondary wagering. By way of illustration, and not limitation, one can play Blackjack and wager upon the occurrence of a natural twenty-one by either the house or the player, upon the occurrence of a certain card holding or combination by either the house or the player, upon either the house or the player “going bust” or not “going bust,” upon the occurrence of either the house or the player winning, upon the occurrence of either the house or the player having at least a specific point count, and the like. Many suitable games will become apparent to one skilled in the art after benefiting from reading this specification. Such other games are considered within the scope of this invention.

In one embodiment, the opportunities of steps 102 and 108 are afforded by the same house. The rules of the secondary wager are preferably established by the house. In another embodiment, the opportunities of step 102 and 108 are afforded by two different houses. For example, a first house may be running the primary game while a second house, which is watching the primary game, is running the secondary wager. Furthermore, it is important to note that, in some embodiments, the player who accepts the opportunity of step 102 is not the same player who accepts the opportunity of step 108. For example, a first player may be playing the primary game, while a second player makes secondary wagers on the indicia generated during the play of the primary game. In another embodiment, it is the same player who accepts the opportunities of both steps 102 and 108. If the opportunity to make a secondary wager (step 108) is not accepted, the primary game can be played (see steps 104 and 106) in accordance with the established rules.

Referring again to FIG. 1, in step 110 of method 100 it is determined whether or not a secondary wager was made in step 108 and appropriate action is taken. If no secondary wager was made, then the primary game is played in accordance with established rules (step 104) and the house continues to afford opportunities to make secondary wagers (repeating step 108). Thereafter, the player of the primary game can choose to play again (return to step 102) or quit the game. Even if a wager was made in a prior round of the primary game, the player of the secondary wager need not wager on every sequential round of the primary game. In one such embodiment, the player makes secondary wagers on certain rounds that are selected at the player's discretion. In another embodiment, such wagers are made on certain rounds in accordance with the terms prescribed by the house (e.g. upon an event occurring, every other round, or every round). Alternatively, if a secondary wager was made in step 108 then step 112 is executed wherein the outcome of such secondary wager is determined.

In step 112 of method 100 the outcome of the secondary wager is determined. The outcome of the secondary wager is determined by comparing the rules of the secondary wager established by the house (see step 108) with the indicia generated during play of the primary game (step 104), wherein such rules specify the factors(s) necessary to win each round of wagering. Such factors are selected so that winning the primary game does not necessitate winning the secondary wager. In one embodiment, the outcome of the secondary wager is determined such that the outcome of the primary game is one factor among a plurality of factors that is examined when determining the outcome of the secondary wager, but is not the sole determinant. Thus, for example, it is possible to win the primary game but lose the secondary wager. In another embodiment, the outcome of the secondary wager is determined such that the outcome of the primary game is not a factor that is considered when determining the outcome of the secondary wager. In other words, the outcome of the primary game is irrelevant to the outcome of the secondary wager. Thus, for example, it is possible for the player of the primary game to lose such primary game while the player of the secondary wager may win the wager despite the fact that both games are dependent on the same indicia.

Referring again to step 112, the established rules of the secondary wager are constructed such that the odds of receiving a favorable outcome on a given round of wagering change with the current number of favorable outcomes received. For example, when the player has received zero favorable outcomes, such player may have an X % chance of winning the current round of the secondary wager. When the player has received one favorable outcome, such player may have a Y % chance of winning the current round of the secondary wager, wherein X is not equal to Y. In one embodiment, the odds of receiving a favorable outcome change with each favorable outcome such that the odds of winning decrease. In one such embodiment, the payout table is constructed such that the reward is inversely related to odds of winning the current round. In another embodiment, such odds increase with each favorable outcome. In another embodiment, such odds may vacillate—increasing during some rounds and decreasing in others,

The house can establish the terms of the secondary wager such that the secondary wager may, or may not, conflict with the primary game. In the following example, the primary game is Blackjack, the player holds a hand of seventeen, and the secondary wager is won by receiving a nineteen or greater. The player of the primary game may be influenced to request a “hit” in an attempt to win the secondary wager despite the risk such a “hit” poses to winning the primary game. This presents the player with a conflict—should the player request a “hit” in an attempt to win the secondary wager, despite the risk of losing the primary game? In one embodiment, the terms imposed by the house are constructed in such a way so as to avoid influencing the strategy for optimal play of the primary game. One means for avoiding such a conflict is for the house to establish rules of secondary wager wherein the value of the hand is determined prior to requesting any hits. Other means for avoiding such a conflict would be apparent to one skilled in the art. In another embodiment, such a conflict is not avoided, as it may add to the enjoyment of the game.

There are a finite number of possible outcome scenarios of the secondary wager. In a first outcome scenario, there are two possible outcomes—favorable and unfavorable. In a second outcome scenario, there are three possible outcomes—favorable, unfavorable, and null (e.g. tie or “push”). The favorable or unfavorable nature of an outcome is judged from the perspective of the player of the game, rather than from the perspective of the house. In both the first and second outcome scenarios, the number of sequential favorable outcomes is tracked (i.e. the streaks of the secondary wager are counted) by incrementing a counter. It is noteworthy that the number of favorable outcomes is tracked on a player by player basis. Thus, when there are multiple players, each player may have a different current number of favorable outcomes.

Referring to step 112, if the outcome of the secondary wager is a null, then the established rules of the secondary wager are consulted to determine the appropriate category for the outcome. In some embodiments, a null may be treated as a favorable outcome. In another embodiment, a null is treated as an unfavorable outcome. In yet another embodiment a null is treated as a neutral round with regard to the secondary wager. Such a neutral round is neither favorable nor unfavorable. In such a round, the number of favorable outcomes is not incremented nor is it reinitialized. For certain primary games, specific events may be designated as a null triggering event. For example, in one embodiment, when the primary game is Blackjack and the player splits a pair in the primary game, such a round is treated as a neutral round in the secondary wager. In another example, a null in the primary game is treated as a neutral round in the secondary wager, but initiates a new round of primary game play that replaces the previous round (i.e. a “do-over”).

Referring again to step 112, if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable to the player, then step 114 is executed. In step 114, which is optional, the house makes a payout in accordance with a payout table. In some embodiments, a payout is not made (step 114 is skipped) upon receiving an unfavorable outcome and the stake is lost. In step 116 the house confiscates the stake made by such player and sets the number of favorable outcomes to an initial value. For example, the number of favorable outcomes may be set to zero. After the secondary wager has been resolved in a manner unfavorable to the player, the primary game can still be played normally (step 104).

Should the outcome of the secondary wager (step 112) be resolved in favor of the player, then step 118 is executed. Step 118 increments the number of favorable outcomes, preferably by an integer. For example it; prior to step 118, the current number of favorable outcomes was zero, then such number is incremented to one. If, prior to step 118, the current number of favorable outcomes was two, then such number is incremented to three. Once the number of favorable outcomes has been incremented, a determination is made as to whether the instant round is the final round of play, as determined by the established rules of the secondary wager. If the instant round is the final round, then step 114 is executed, and the player receives a payout in accordance with the current number of favorable outcomes. Thereafter, the number of outcomes is reinitialized (step 116). Conversely, if the instant round is not the final round, then no payout is made and another round of secondary wagering ensues. No additional stake is required to continue to make secondary wagers. In some embodiments, a chip is used to help track the current number of favorable outcomes. In one such embodiment, a chip indicative of the current counter value is exchanged for a chip indicative of the previous counter value. In another embodiment, predetermined positions on the playing surface are dedicated to receiving a tracking chip. There is one such position for each round of secondary wagering—the positions being marked with each favorable outcome. Additional rounds of secondary wagering are based upon an indicia generated in a subsequent round of play of the primary game (step 104). In other embodiments, not shown, payouts are made at different times. For example, a payout may be made upon receiving a favorable outcome when it is not the final round. A payout may be made at the player's discretion. In another embodiment, a payout is made at the conclusion of each round which received a favorable outcome.

When a payout is taken in accordance with step 114, such a payout is preferably made in accordance with a predetermined payout table. A payout table correlates the number of favorable outcomes and the terms of the house to the payout amount. The details of such payout tables are discussed elsewhere in this specification. In one embodiment, the payout table and the house terms are constructed such that the payout may be made only if all rounds of the wager are won. Alternatively, a lesser amount may be paid out for winning fewer than all of the rounds of the wager. The amounts won may be a fixed ratio, such as paying ten dollars for every one dollar wagered for winning round two. In another embodiment, a payout is a percentage of a jackpot (10% of the jackpot for completing three rounds, 50% of the jackpot for completing four rounds, etc.). Such a jackpot may be a fixed jackpot, a progressive jackpot, a random or quasi-random jackpot, a mystery jackpot, etc. The progressive jackpot may be correlated with the sum of the previous secondary wagers that were lost by prior players. Alternatively, such losses may be paid into a hidden jackpot that is used to re-seed a displayed progressive jackpot. The jackpot which is awarded to the player may include the original stake made during the secondary wager. In another embodiment, the stake is not part of the awarded jackpot and is kept by the house. Many other payout schemes are known to those skilled in the art and are contemplated for inclusion in the present invention.

EXAMPLE 1

An example will now be outlined wherein the primary game is Blackjack and secondary wagers are made on the occurrence of receiving a hand with at least a certain value. The present example is merely one embodiment, and is not intended to limit the invention to a single embodiment.

In the present example, the rules of the secondary wager established by the house dictate there are no more than three sequential rounds of secondary wagering, with a payout being made upon the conclusion of the third round or upon the first unfavorable outcome. Winning or losing the Blackjack game is not a factor in the outcome of the secondary wager. Six decks of cards are used. To win the first round of the secondary wager, the player's hand must have a value of seventeen or greater. To win the second round of the secondary wager, the hand must have a value of eighteen or greater. To win the third round, the hand must have a value of nineteen or greater. A tie or split pairs is treated as a null round which is neither favorable nor unfavorable. A tie gives a payout of 1:1 in the primary game. A surrender is treated as an unfavorable outcome. In the present embodiment, the value of the hand is determined after the dealing is completed but before any additional draws are taken (i.e. a “natural” hand). In an alternate embodiment, the value of the hand is determined after all draws are taken. The payout table for use with the present example is illustrated in Table 1. The payouts listed in such tables are the payout per $1 wagered.

TABLE 1 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Secondary Outcomes Wager Payout 0 — $0 1 Player's hand has a value of 17 or greater $1 2 Player's hand has a value of 18 or greater $2 3 Player's hand has a value of 19 or greater $11

Referring again to FIG. 1, in the instant example the house affords a player an opportunity to make primary wagers on a series of rounds of Blackjack (step 102). Such a series of rounds is played in accordance with established rules of Blackjack as prescribed by the house. Likewise, the house affords the opportunity to make a secondary wager on the same series of rounds (step 108) in accordance with the rules of the secondary wager established by the house. In the present example, a player accepts both such opportunities and makes a primary wager on the first round of a primary Blackjack game and also makes a secondary wager on the series of rounds of Blackjack.

Once both the primary and secondary wagers have been made, the Blackjack game is played (step 104). In the present example, the dealer provides two cards to the player—an ace of hearts and a nine of clubs. The player's natural hand therefore totals twenty points. The outcome of the secondary wager is then determined (step 112). According to the rules of the secondary wager, the first round is favorable to the player if the player's hand totals seventeen or greater. Clearly, the player has received a favorable outcome. Therefore, step 1 18 is executed and the number of favorable outcomes is incremented from zero to one. During the following round of Blackjack, a new round of secondary wagering will commence. No additional secondary stake is necessary in the instant example. Prior to initiating the second round of wagering, the first round of the primary game is completed. During play of the primary Blackjack game, the dealer receives two cards—an ace of spades and a ten of clubs—giving the dealer a total of twenty one points. The player has lost the primary game, but has won the secondary wager.

The player plays a second round of Blackjack by providing a fresh primary wager. The player is dealt two cards—a ten of diamonds and a nine of clubs, providing a total of nineteen points. According to Table 1, to win the second round of wagering, the player's hand must be eighteen or greater. The player has won a second round of wagering, therefore the counter is incremented from a value of one to a new value of two. The current round of the primary game is continued. During such primary play, the player elects to “stand” and the dealer thereafter “busts.” As such, the player wins both the primary game and the secondary wager. The player receives a payout for the primary game in accordance with the established rules.

The player plays a third round of Blackjack by providing a third primary wager. To win the third round of secondary wagering, the player's natural hand must be nineteen or greater. The player is dealt two cards—a five of diamonds and a ten of clubs, for a total of fifteen points. The player has lost the secondary wager. Accordingly, step 114 is executed wherein the player receives a payout in accordance with Table 1 for having received two favorable outcomes. Thereafter, step 116 reinitializes the current number of favorable outcomes in preparation for future secondary wagering. Had the player won the third (final) round of secondary wagering, the counter would have been incremented to three (step 118) and thereafter a payout would have been made for having received three favorable outcomes before reinitializing the counter. Game play in the primary Blackjack game continues in accordance with the established rules.

EXAMPLE 2

In Example 2, the outcome of the primary game is one factor to be considered when determining the outcome of the secondary wager, but it is not the sole factor. Example 2 is otherwise substantially similar to Example 1. Two payout amounts are listed in Table 2. In one embodiment, the house chooses which payout schedule to utilize at the time rules of the secondary wager are established. In another embodiment, the player chooses which payout schedule is utilized at the time the secondary wager is made.

TABLE 2 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Payout Outcomes Secondary Wager 1 Payout 2 0 — $0 $0 1 1. Player wins instant round of primary $1 $0 game 2. Player's hand has a value of 17 or greater 2 1. Player wins instant round of primary $2 $0 game 2. Player's hand has a value of 18 or greater 3 1. Player wins instant round of primary $11 $40 game 2. Player's hand has a value of 19 or greater

Referring again to FIG. 1, in the present example, step 102 is executed when a player makes a primary wager on a primary game of Blackjack which is to be played in accordance with the rules of Blackjack established by the house. Step 108 is executed when the same player makes a secondary wager on the primary Blackjack game. In the present example, the player wagers $1 on the secondary wager. In accordance with the factors listed in Table 2, to win the first round of secondary wagering, the player must both win the primary game of Blackjack and have a natural hand of seventeen or greater.

In step 104, the Blackjack game is played in accordance with the established rules. The player is dealt two cards—a seven of clubs and a queen of hearts. As the dealing is complete, step 110 is executed wherein it is determined if a secondary wager was made. In the present example, a secondary wager was executed and the outcome such wager is determined (step 112). In step 112 the value of the player's hand is determined to be seventeen for purposes of the secondary wager. One of the two criteria necessary to win the first round of secondary wagering has been met. The player elects to stand.

During the first round of Blackjack play, the dealer is dealt two cards—a five of hearts and a six of spades. As the initial value of the dealer's hand is eleven, the dealer draws another card. The dealer draws the four of hearts, bringing the value of the hand to fifteen. The dealer takes another card and draws the jack of clubs, bringing the total value to twenty five—a bust. The dealer has lost the round, and therefore the player has satisfied both criteria necessary to win the secondary wager. As such, the number of favorable outcomes of the secondary wager is incremented (step 118).

A second round of Blackjack is played. In accordance with the terms of the second round of secondary wagering, the player must both win the Blackjack game and be dealt a hand with a value of eighteen or greater in the opening hand. The house deals a ten of spades and a Jack of clubs, for a total hand value of twenty. One of the two factors necessary to win the secondary wager has been met. The player elects to stand.

During the second round, the dealer initially receives a six of hearts and a Jack of diamonds, for a total value of sixteen. The dealer draws an additional card which is a six of spades, bringing the total of the hand to twenty-two. The dealer busts and the player wins the second round of secondary wagering. Accordingly, the number of favorable outcomes is incremented to two.

A third round of Blackjack is played. To win the third round, the player must both win the Blackjack game and receive a natural nineteen or greater. The player is dealt a five of clubs and a seven of clubs for a total value of twelve. The player cannot win the secondary wager for round three. Accordingly, a payout of $2 is made in accordance with having received two favorable outcomes. The primary Blackjack game continues to play in accordance with the established rules.

Other variations of the aforementioned example are also possible. For example, the value of the hand may be determined after the player has received additional cards and elected to “stand.” In the aforementioned example, a total of three rounds were played. It is readily appreciated that fewer than three rounds may be played. Similarly, more than three rounds may be played.

EXAMPLE 3

The present example is substantially similar to Example 1, but differs therefrom in that the first round of secondary wagering has more than one factor which is considered when determining the outcome of the secondary wager and the subsequent rounds have a single factor.

TABLE 3 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Secondary Outcomes Wager Payout 0 — $0 1 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $1 2. Player's hand has a value of 17 or greater 2 1. Player's hand has a value of 18 or greater $2 3 1. Player's hand has a value of 19 or greater $11

EXAMPLE 4

The present example is substantially similar to Example 2, but differs therefrom in that the odds of winning the secondary wager increases, rather than decreases, with the number of favorable outcomes achieved.

TABLE 4 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Secondary Outcomes Wager Payout 0 — $0 1 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $1 2. Player's hand has a value of 19 or less 2 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $2 2. Player's hand has a value of 18 or less 3 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $11 2. Player's hand has a value of 17 or less

EXAMPLE 5

The present example is substantially similar to Example 2, but differs therefrom in that there are more than three rounds of secondary wagering. Additionally, in one round the factor used to determine the outcome of the wager is not the simply point value of the hand. In the instant example, the factor is receiving a Five Card Charlie. When attempting to qualify for receiving four favorable outcomes, the value of the hand is determined after the player “'stands.”

TABLE 5 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Secondary Outcomes Wager Payout 0 — $0 1 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $1 2. Player's hand has a value of 17 or greater 2 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $2 2. Player's hand has a value of 18 or greater 3 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $11 2. Player's hand has a value of 19 or greater 4 1. Player receives a five card Charlie $100

EXAMPLE 6

The present example is substantially similar to Example 2, but differs therefrom in that the outcome of each round is determined by considering a plurality of factors which are presented in the alternative. Once a factor has been satisfied, the same factor cannot be reused in a subsequent round until after the counter has been reinitialized. For example, on round one, the player receives a hand with a value of twenty. Such a hand satisfies factors A, B and C listed in Table 6. The player chooses to apply the hand of twenty against factor C (19 or greater) and receive one favorable outcome. In the subsequent rounds of secondary wagering, such rounds are won only if the player meets factors A or B—factor C has been met in a previous round and may not be reused.

TABLE 6 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Secondary Outcomes Wager Payout 0 — $0 1 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $1 AND ONE OF THE FOLLOWING A. Player's hand has a value of 17 or greater B. Player's hand has a value of 18 or greater C. Player's hand has a value of 19 or greater 2 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $2 AND ONE OF THE FOLLOWING A. Player's hand has a value of 17 or greater B. Player's hand has a value of 18 or greater C. Player's hand has a value of 19 or greater 3 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $11 AND ONE OF THE FOLLOWING A. Player's hand has a value of 17 or greater B. Player's hand has a value of 18 or greater C. Player's hand has a value of 19 or greater 4 1. Player receives a five card Charlie $100

Once a factor is used, it cannot be reused in a subsequent round until the current number of favorable outcomes is reinitialized. Such factors arc chosen by the player from the aforementioned list of possible factors just prior to determining the value of the player's hand.

EXAMPLE 7

Example 7 is similar to Example 1, except in that the primary game is Caribbean Stud and the wager is based upon the ranking of the player's hand. Two payout values are listed and the house determines which payout is to be used at the time the secondary wager is afforded.

TABLE 7 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Payout Payout Outcomes Secondary Wager 1 2 0 — $0 $0 1 Player's hand has a value of one-pair or $1 $0 greater 2 Player's hand has a value of two-pairs or $2 $5 greater 3 Player's hand has a value of three-of-a- $4 $13 kind or greater

As previously discussed, alternative factors are also contemplated for use with the instant invention. For example, in another embodiment, the first round is won if the dealer qualifies and the player wins the Caribbean Stud game with at least a pair of fours. The second round is won if the dealer qualifies and the player wins the Caribbean Stud game with at least a pair of eights. The third round is won if the dealer qualifies and the player wins the Caribbean Stud game with at least a pair of Jacks. Other card combinations may also be used as factors. For example, at least one ace in round one, at least one ace and one face card in round two, and at least one ace and two face cards in round three.

EXAMPLE 8

Example 8 is similar to Example 1, except in that the primary game is Pai Gow poker and the factor under consideration is the ranking of the player's hand.

TABLE 8 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Payout Payout Outcomes Secondary Wager 1 2 0 — $0 $0 1 Player's hand has a value of three-of-a- $1 $0 kind or greater 2 Player's hand has a value of a Straight or $2 $0 greater 3 Player's hand has a value of a Flush or $4 $11 greater

EXAMPLE 9

Example 9, is substantially similar to Example 2 except that the factors under consideration require that the player win the primary game, but have a hand of less than a certain value. As this certain value becomes lower, it becomes more difficult to both win the primary game and still maintain the point value necessary to win the secondary wager —thus the odds of winning the secondary wager decrease with each favorable outcome.

TABLE 9 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Secondary Outcomes Wager Payout 0 — $0 1 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $1 2. Player's hand has a value of 19 or less 2 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $2 2. Player's hand has a value of 18 or less 3 1. Player wins instant round of primary game $11 2. Player's hand has a value of 17 or less

EXAMPLE 10

Example 10 is otherwise substantially similar to Example 2, except in that the value of the hand is determined after the player has chosen to “stand.”

TABLE 10 Payout Table Number of Favorable Factors That Determine Outcome of Payout Outcomes Secondary Wager 1 Payout 2 0 — $0 $0 1 1. Player wins instant round of primary $1 $0 game 2. Player's hand has a value of 17 or greater 2 1. Player wins instant round of primary $2 $0 game 2. Player's hand has a value of 18 or greater 3 1. Player wins instant round of primary $11 $40 game 2. Player's hand has a value of 19 or greater

The method of the instant Example begins when a player makes a primary wager on a primary game of Blackjack which is to be played in accordance with the rules of Blackjack established by the house. The same player makes a secondary wager on the primary Blackjack game. In accordance with the factors listed in Table 10, to win the first round of secondary wagering, the player must both win the primary game of Blackjack and have a hand of seventeen or greater, although the player may draw additional cards to help achieve such a hand.

During the first round of Blackjack the player is dealt two cards—a two of hearts and a Queen of hearts. The player elects to draw an additional card and receives a five of clubs. The player thereafter decides to “stand” and the ending value of the hand is determined to be seventeen. The dealer is dealt two cards—a five of hearts and a six of spades. The dealer draws another card. The dealer draws the four of hearts, bringing the value of the hand to fifteen. The dealer takes another card and draws the Jack of clubs, bringing the total value to twenty-five—a bust. The dealer has lost the round, and therefore the player has satisfied both criteria necessary to win the secondary wager. As such, the number of favorable outcomes of the secondary wager is incremented to a value of one and a payout is made in the primary game.

A second round of Blackjack is played. In accordance with the terms of the second round of secondary wagering, the player must both win the Blackjack game and have a hand with a value Of eighteen or greater. The house deals a ten of spades and a jack of clubs to the player. The player elects to stand and thereafter the value of the hand is determined to be twenty. One of the two factors necessary to win the secondary wager has been met. During the second round, the dealer initially receives a six of hearts and a Jack of diamonds, for a total value of sixteen. The dealer draws an additional card which is a six of spades, bringing the total of the hand to twenty-two. The dealer busts and the player wins the second round of secondary wagering. Accordingly, the number of favorable outcomes is incremented to two and a payout is made in the primary game.

A third round of Blackjack is played. To win the third round, the player must both win the Blackjack game and receive a nineteen or greater. The player is dealt a five of clubs and a seven of clubs for a total value of twelve. The player draws an additional card and receives the nine of hearts, bringing the total value to twenty one. The player elects to stand. The dealer is dealt a five of clubs and an ace of diamonds. The dealer draws an additional card and receives a six of hearts, bringing the total value to twenty one. The player and the dealer have tied. In accordance with the rules of the primary Blackjack game, the player is given a payout of 1:1 (i.e. the original wager is returned). In accordance with the rules of the secondary wager, such a tie is a null round which is neither favorable nor unfavorable. As such the counter is not incremented nor is it reinitialized. The current number of favorable outcomes remains at two and the fourth round of play will be a “redo” of round three.

During the fourth round of play, the player draws the King of diamonds and a four of clubs. The player draws the eight of hearts as an additional card, bringing the total value to twenty-two. The player has lost the instant round of the primary game and has also lost the secondary wager. A payout is made in the secondary wagering game in accordance with having received two favorable outcomes.

While the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof to adapt to particular situations without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope and spirit of the appended claims. 

1. A method of playing a wagering game comprising the steps of, (a) establishing rules of play for a primary game that may be played in a series of rounds, (b) affording a player an opportunity to make primary wagers on a series of rounds of the primary game in accordance with the established rules of the primary game, (c) establishing rules of play for a secondary wager to be played substantially concurrently with the primary game such that a favorable outcome in the primary game does not necessitate a favorable outcome in the secondary wager, and such that the odds of receiving a favorable outcome of the secondary wager depends upon the current number of favorable outcomes of the secondary wager, wherein (i) if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable then the current number of favorable outcomes is set to an initial value, (ii) if the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable, then the current number of favorable outcomes is incremented, (d) affording a player an opportunity to make a secondary wager on a series of rounds of play of the primary game, (e) playing a series of rounds of the primary game in accordance with the established rules, (f) determining if a secondary wager was made, wherein if the secondary wager was made, determining the outcome of the secondary wager.
 2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable, the player of the secondary wager receiving a payout which is dependent upon the current number of favorable outcomes.
 3. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable, the player of the secondary wager is afforded the opportunity to be rewarded with a payout in accordance with the current number of favorable outcomes, and thereafter the current number of favorable outcomes is set to the initial value.
 4. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the player recited in step (b) and the player recited in step (d) are the same player.
 5. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the player recited in step (b) and the player recited in step (d) are different players.
 6. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the outcome of the secondary wager depends upon a plurality of factors, one of which is the outcome of the primary game.
 7. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the outcome of the primary game is irrelevant to the outcome of the secondary wager.
 8. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome decrease as the current number of favorable outcomes increases.
 9. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome increase as the current number of favorable outcomes increases.
 10. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome fluctuate on each successive round of the secondary wager.
 11. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein a favorable outcome of the secondary wager is determined by a plurality of factors, the player of the secondary wager selecting a predetermined number of factors from the plurality of factors, and the indicia satisfy the selected factors, wherein the predetermined number is specified in the established rules of the secondary wager.
 12. The method as recited in claim 11, wherein, once a factor has been selected from the plurality of factors, it may not be selected again in a subsequent round of secondary wagering until the current number of favorable outcomes has been set to an initial value.
 13. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the primary game is selected from the group consisting of Blackjack, Caribbean Stud, and Pai Gow.
 14. A method of playing a Blackjack game comprising the steps of: (a) establishing rules of play for a Blackjack game that may he played in a series of rounds, (b) affording a player an opportunity to make primary wagers on a series of rounds of the Blackjack game in accordance with the established rules of the Blackjack game, (c) establishing rules of play for a secondary wager to be played substantially concurrently with the Blackjack game such that a favorable outcome in the Blackjack game does not necessitate a favorable outcome in the secondary wager, and such that the odds of receiving a favorable outcome of the secondary wager depends upon the current number of favorable outcomes of the secondary wager, wherein (i) if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable, then the current number of favorable outcomes is set to an initial value, (ii) if the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable, then the current number of favorable outcomes is incremented, (d) affording a player an opportunity to make the secondary wager on a series of rounds of play of the Blackjack game, (e) playing a series of rounds of the Blackjack game in accordance with the established riles, (f) determining if a secondary wager was made, wherein if the secondary wager was made, determining the outcome of the secondary wager.
 15. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein there is a maximum number of rounds of secondary wagering imposed by the established rules of the secondary wager.
 16. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein the odds of winning the secondary wager change such that the odds decrease with each favorable outcome of secondary wagering.
 17. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome increase as the current number of favorable outcomes increases.
 18. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome fluctuate on each successive round of the secondary wager.
 19. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable, further comprising the step of providing the player of the secondary wager a payout which is dependent upon the current number of favorable outcomes, and thereafter the current number of favorable outcomes to set to the initial value.
 20. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein the outcome of the Blackjack game is not a factor in the outcome of the secondary wager.
 21. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein the outcome of the secondary wager is determined such that the outcome of the Blackjack game is one factor among a plurality of factors that determine the outcome of the secondary wager.
 22. The method as recited ill claim 14, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable, the player of the secondary wager receiving a payout which is dependent upon the current number of favorable outcomes.
 23. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein the player recited in step (b) and the player recited in step (d) are different players.
 24. A method of playing a Blackjack game comprising the steps of. (a) establishing rules of play for a Blackjack game that may be played in a series of rounds, (b) affording a player an opportunity to make primary wagers on each sequential round of a series of rounds of the Blackjack game in accordance with the established rules of the Blackjack game, (c) establishing rules of play for a secondary wager to be played substantially concurrently with the Blackjack game such that a favorable outcome in the Blackjack game does not necessitate a favorable outcome in the secondary wager, and such that the odds of receiving a favorable outcome of the secondary wager depends upon the current number of favorable outcomes of the secondary wager, wherein (i) if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable, then the current number of favorable outcomes is set to an initial value, (ii) if the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable, then the current number of favorable outcomes is incremented, (d) affording the same player all opportunity to make the secondary wager on a series of rounds of play of the Blackjack game, (e) playing a series of rounds of the Blackjack game in accordance with the established riles, (f) determining if a secondary wager was made, wherein if the secondary wager was made, determining the outcome of the secondary wager.
 25. The method as recited in claim 24, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable, the player of the secondary wager is afforded the opportunity to be rewarded with a payout in accordance with the current number of favorable outcomes, and thereafter the current number of favorable outcomes is set to the initial value.
 26. The method as recited in claim 24, wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome decrease as the current number of favorable outcomes increases.
 27. The method as recited in claim 24, wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome increase as the current number of favorable outcomes increases.
 28. The method as recited in claim 24, wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome fluctuate on each successive round of the secondary wager.
 29. The method as recited in claim 24, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable, the player of the secondary wager receiving a payout which is dependent upon the current number of favorable outcomes. 